– We mourn a woman who – with or without a crown – is a symbol of royalty, said Mirren, who has played Queen Elizabeth both in film and on stage.

James Bond star Daniel Craig, who shot a scene with the Queen at the opening of the London Olympics in 2012, said he left a “legacy like no other and will be sorely missed”.

– Like many others, I am deeply saddened by today’s news, and my thoughts go out to the royal family, to those she loves and to those who love her, the film star wrote on Instagram.

Elton John wrote online that the Queen has been a big part of his life “from childhood to this day”.

– It was so inspiring to be in his presence, and he led the country through some of our greatest – and our darkest – moments, with grace, courtesy and genuine warmth. I will miss him very much, wrote the singer and composer.

Another who pointed out that the Queen was “always around” was Rolling Stones vocalist Mick Jagger, who remembers watching her wedding highlights on TV and remembering her “as a beautiful young woman until she became the nation’s beloved grandmother”. Fellow musician and Beatles frontman Paul McCartney also remembered the deceased king and has shared photos of the young Elizabeth on social media.

– May he rest in peace. long live the king, wrote McCartney.

– His legacy will be a memorial to the symbol of love, understanding and selfless celebration of fellow human beings around the world, regardless of race and religion. He has been an anchor, not only for Britain and the Commonwealth, but an inspiration to the whole world through his long service, concludes composer Andrew Lloyd-Webber.

(© NTB)